Hello from “Real Money Notebook for Your 50s”!
We’re already in the third week of 2026, and while the winter chill deepens, the markets are heating up 🔥
In Japan, the dissolution of the lower house sent the Nikkei soaring 📈, while in the U.S., a mix of financial uncertainty and strong earnings created a tug-of-war in the markets. Meanwhile, Japan’s mutual fund balance surpassed ¥300 trillion, marking a major milestone for long-term investors.
So— What’s happening now? And how should we prepare for these changes?
Let’s dive into this week’s key topics with insights tailored for wealth-building in your 50s!
📈 Nikkei Surges on Expectations for Fiscal Expansion
Japan’s stock market rallied following the dissolution of the lower house, with hopes rising for bold fiscal policies under the Takaichi administration. The Nikkei jumped sharply 📈, but concerns over fiscal health pushed long-term interest rates up to 2.18%, and the yen continued to weaken.
In times like these, it’s important to stay grounded and stick to the basics: long-term, diversified, and consistent investing.
🇺🇸 U.S. Market: Uncertainty Meets Optimism
In the U.S., news of an investigation into the Fed Chair and debates over credit card interest rate caps triggered a brief market dip ⤵️. However, strong earnings from major banks and semiconductor firms, along with improving job data, helped the S&P 500 rebound 📈.
With earnings season kicking off in full next week, investors are taking a wait-and-see approach.
Personally, I’m reminded that staying the course is key—especially when the market wobbles.
💴 Yen Weakens Further—Is It Structural?
The yen continued to slide this week, driven by fading expectations for U.S. rate cuts, Japan’s cautious monetary stance, and widening interest rate differentials.
Speculation around structural factors—like demographic trends and fiscal imbalances—may also be fueling the trend.
In the latter half of the week, the yen strengthened due to concerns over potential currency intervention…
While a weaker yen benefits foreign assets, it can also squeeze household budgets through higher import prices. Balance is key.
🧾 Rising Interest Rates: Risk or Opportunity?
Long-term interest rates are climbing, which could benefit savings products like government bonds.
But for those considering fixed-rate mortgages, caution is warranted.
I’ve been gradually investing in 10-year floating-rate government bonds as part of my education fund strategy.
As we shift into a “world with interest,” it’s time to rethink the low-rate mindset of the past 30 years.
💰 Mutual Fund Balances Top ¥300 Trillion!
Japan’s mutual fund balance has officially surpassed ¥300 trillion 🎉
That’s about 14% of the country’s ¥2,200 trillion in household financial assets.
It’s a clear sign that the shift from saving to investing is gaining real momentum.
Those who actively seek information and take action may find themselves ahead in this new era of wealth-building.
🌏 2026 Global Economic Growth Forecast
According to IMF projections, here’s what global growth looks like this year:
- Japan: 0.9%
- U.S.: 2.0%
- EU: 1.3%
- East Asia: 4.4%
- South Asia: 5.6%
These differences in growth and interest rates, along with Japan’s aging population, may be contributing to a structurally weaker yen.
It’s a good time to revisit the importance of global diversification in your portfolio.
✨ This Week’s Takeaway
“It’s the waves that teach us how to read the current.”
When markets get choppy, it’s a chance to reflect on your investment strategy.
Stay calm, stay focused, and keep investing with discipline.
📅 I’ll be back next week with more real-world money insights for your 50s. Until then—stay steady and keep flowing forward! 🌊
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